KATHMANDU: The Nepal Medical Association (NMA) has stated that the knee surgery required by Nepali national women’s football team captain Sabitra Bhandari, popularly known as ‘Samba’, can be safely performed in Nepal.
In a press release, the association noted that it took note of Samba’s appeal for financial assistance to cover treatment in Qatar, estimated at around USD 80,000. The NMA highlighted that hospitals across Nepal have the necessary specialist doctors, modern medical equipment, and infrastructure to carry out complex surgeries and related treatment at high standards.
The NMA urged authorities not to overlook domestic doctors, healthcare workers, and institutions and to effectively implement health schemes aimed at underprivileged citizens. It added that sending celebrities or athletes abroad for treatment could affect the morale of Nepal’s medical professionals and institutions.
Recognizing Samba as a national sports icon, the NMA requested that her treatment be done within Nepal and expressed its readiness to coordinate and facilitate the process. The press release, signed by NMA General Secretary Dr. Sanjiv Tiwari, also wished Samba a speedy recovery.
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